North Macedonia’s state-owned utility ESM has launched the third phase of a roughly €46 million programme to modernise six large hydropower plants.
The work is expected to add 13.5 MW of capacity and increase annual generation by about 50 GWh. ESM estimates the additional output could generate at least €5 million in annual revenue.
Financing comprises a €35 million KfW loan and a €10.7 million EU grant through the Western Balkans Investment Framework.
The programme covers Vrutok, Vrben, Raven, Tikveš, Špilje and Globočica, with equipment replacement and upgrades intended to improve reliability, reduce interruptions and extend operating life.
The investment focuses on raising production from existing assets. Actual output gains will also depend on water availability, which remains a central constraint on hydropower generation.
